Joann Stephens, 95, formerly of Apalachin, passed away on September 9, 2025. She was predeceased by her parents, Joe & Anna Ashcraft, her husband of 63 years, Gerald, her daughter Sandra Layton, her son Dana Stephens, her brother Kirk Ashcraft, and her great grandson Corey Harders.

Joann was born on March 15, 1930 in Wyalusing, PA, spent an idyllic childhood in the small town or Orwigsburg, PA and moved to Apalachin when she was 15.

After working at Riverview Manor Nursing Home and IBM, she quit when her husband retired so that they could spend time together. In addition to their many memorable trips (her favorite being to England in 1997), she and her husband completed the Master Gardener course in Broome County where they both worked in Cutler Botanic Gardens for many years.

For the past 2 ½ years Joann was lovingly cared for by her daughter Cheryl.

Joann is survived by her daughters Cheryl Stephens, Sheila Stephens (Ken Hull), her sons Mark Stephens (Lisa Gould), and Eric Stephens (Lori Backus). She is also survived by her grandchildren, Tracy Harders (Brian), Sara Tripp, Emily Tripp, Jeffrey Swan (Kate), Hannah Stephens, and Julia Stephens, 3 great grandchildren, Daniel Woodard, Madelyn Swan, & Robert Swan, her brother-in-law David Stephens (Dede), and many nieces and nephews.

Last but not least, she is survived by her extraordinary cat, who was her best buddy—little buddy—her little Manny.

Joann especially wanted to express her sincere gratitude to her family for all their help over the years.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in Joann's memory may be made to the Apalachin Fire Department or Mercy House (212 N McKinley Ave. Endicott NY 13760

A memorial service will be held at Coleman & Daniels Funeral Home on St Rt 434 in Apalachin on Monday September 15,2025 at 12 Noon The family will receive friends Monday from 10am to 12pm at the funeral home